Sink Your Teeth Into Authentic Italian Pastries At This Amazing Bakery In Maine
When you think about food in Maine, images of bright red lobster, buttery lobster rolls and fried just-about-all-seafood. But Mainers will tell you that there’s so much more to our food scene than just seafood. We’ve got some of the best ice cream (though, we did manage to infuse seafood into that somehow) and our donuts are worth traveling for. If you’re looking to continue broadening your horizons, you’ll want to visit this Italian bakery in Maine. Those who live here love it and those from away are often shocked that it exists!
The Italian Bakery in Lewiston has been run by the Chiaravelotti family since being founded by Frank Chiaravelotti in 1960. Today, the third generation of the family is at the helm.
Frank got his start working for his sister at Sam’s Italian Sandwich Shop. Business was great and the shop was purchasing their bread from a local Portland bakery.
When he was 20, Frank went to culinary school. Upon his return he convinced Sam to start a bakery, which Frank ran for 10 years. In 1960, he struck out on his own to create The Italian Bakery. And the rest is history!
Their display cases are chock-full of goodies, all clearly labeled. You can also ask any of the folks behind the counter if you have questions. Everything is made in-house, which means you might just be talking to the person who made what you're ordering.
They also make party platters perfect for family gatherings, holidays or any other get-together that includes people who love delicious sweets. Which, honestly, is just about every event, right?
The Italian Bakery is open Tuesday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Saturday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday from 6 a.m. to noon. They’re closed on Monday. To learn more about their history and see what they offer, check out their website. You can follow them on Facebook, too. To ask any questions you can reach them on 207-782-8312. Address: 225 Bartlett Street, Lewiston, ME 04240.
The only thing better than a great bakery is a great coffee shop that has it all. Check out these 10 unique coffee shops located throughout the state.
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Michelle has lived in many places, but counts Maine as one of the best. In addition to the smell of ocean water in the air on rainy days in Portland, she loves puppies, photography, funny people, the Maine Red Claws, traveling, fresh tomatoes, Cambodia and filling out forms. For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.